NLC accuses Nigerian govt of plotting to frame #EndBadGovernance protesters

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has accused the Federal Government of plotting to frame innocent citizens on trumped-up charges following the recent #EndBadGovernance protests in the country.

In a communiqué issued after its Emergency National Executive Council meeting on Saturday and signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC condemned the government’s actions and called for an inclusive stakeholders’ conference to address the root causes of the unrest.

The congress demanded an immediate end to attacks on protesters, a National Day of Mourning for those who lost their lives, and accountability from security agencies responsible for the deaths.

The NLC also called for the release of detainees and trade unionists arrested during the protests.

The congress criticized the government’s attempts to criminalize protests and clamp down on individuals with leftist ideologies.

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The NLC urged the government to show good faith and begin the healing process by releasing detainees and engaging in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders.

The communique read: “The NEC once again condemns the killing of innocent protesters who were peacefully expressing their grievances against the harsh policies of the government.

“We demand an immediate cessation of these attacks and call on the government to declare a National Day of Mourning for those who lost their lives and properties during the protests. Additionally, all security agencies responsible for these tragic deaths must be held accountable especially the Police.

“NEC calls for immediate release of detainees and trade unionists arrested either in their homes or relaxation joints. This is the only way Government can show good faith and begin the healing of the nation. NEC condemns plans to frame up innocent citizens on trumped up charges.

“We must understand that this is not the first protest in Nigeria and would not be the last. NEC wonders why this administration is criminalizing protest and have renewed clamp down on Marxists, Socialists and those who hold different shades of Leftist Ideologies as if courting a neoliberal dictatorship.”

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